GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel. At our GKN Filton site, we specialise in the design and manufacture of large complex structural wing assemblies, detailed metallic components and wing systems for a combination of both civil and military aircraft.
We are seeking a dynamic and motivated Team Leader to foster a culture that aligns with GKN Aerospace’s "Great Place to Work" values. In this role, you will lead, inspire, and develop your team, ensuring a culture of openness, continuous learning, and operational excellence. The Team Leader will be accountable for achieving PSQDCC (People, Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cash, and Cost) targets by deploying Lean principles across designated zones, while actively participating in problem‑solving and continuous improvement efforts. The successful applicant will join our Wing Assembly business on a full‑time, permanent basis and lead a team of between 10-15 operators, working a 37 hour, 4 day week.
Responsibilities
- Culture and Leadership: Role‑model GKN Aerospace’s culture principles, motivating and recognizing contributions of individuals and teams to establish an inclusive, collaborative environment.
- Performance Management: Conduct open, honest performance evaluations, provide coaching, and support team members in bridging performance gaps while developing their strengths.
- Safety and Compliance: Maintain a “safety first” mindset, ensuring adherence to GKN Aerospace’s Health, Safety, and Environmental policies, and fostering a healthy and safe workspace.
- Operational Excellence: Actively lead the deployment of the Lean Operating Model (LOM) to meet PSQDCC targets and customer commitments, engaging in hands‑on management and coaching.
- Team Development: Build a pipeline of first‑class Team Members with the potential to advance into leadership or other critical roles within the organization.
- Problem‑Solving and Accountability: Promote a “go‑to‑Gemba” approach, aiming to resolve 95% of issues at the source and cooperating with other Team Leaders to achieve optimal area performance.
- Communication and Engagement: Facilitate effective communication across zones, fostering material flow and accountability among functional support staff, while driving team engagement and following up on engagement actions.
- Budget and Resource Management: Manage the zone’s budget in collaboration with the Group Leader, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to meet performance goals.
- Compliance: Uphold all legal and regulatory standards, including Equal Employment Opportunity, Diversity & Inclusion policies, Compliance and Ethics Policy, and Export Control Regulations.
What You’ll Bring
Essential
- Previous experience in a similar role or demonstrated competence in key tasks within the designated work zone.
- Proven track record of Kaizen implementation and adherence to standardized work processes.
- Self‑motivated, with a strong drive to meet and exceed PSQDCC performance targets.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, capable of working effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Proven ability to lead, engage, train, and develop team members.
- Proficient in English.
Desirable
- Degree or certification in Engineering, Science, or a related field.
- Experience with Lean Operating Model/Production Systems and Lean or Six Sigma certification.
- Background in aerospace supply chain management.
- Passion for the aerospace industry.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary dependent on experience.
- Up to 15% bonus.
- Industry‑leading pension scheme – we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1:1.5 basis (total contribution up to 20%).
- Life assurance 8× salary.
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
- Income protection.
- Shopping discounts.
- Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Employee assistance programme.
- Virtual GP clinic for you and immediate family.
- A collaborative, dynamic working environment.
